OUR LEADERSHIP




  

Kenneth L. Schnitzer, Chairman

In 1987, Ken, a visionary, acquired a Mercedes-Benz dealership in Dallas and named it Park Place Motorcars. Positioned at the intersection of Oak Lawn and Avondale, this location later inspired the name 'Avondale' when Avondale Dealerships was founded in 2020. Recognizing a gap in the luxury automotive sector, Ken passionately believed that success wasn't just about selling cars, but about fostering genuine relationships and offering unparalleled hospitality. 

This ethos became the foundation upon which he built Park Place, carefully cultivating teams dedicated to these principles. Over three decades, this commitment propelled Park Place into one of the country's most respected luxury automotive groups. Today, his unwavering dedication to excellence and innovation remains at the heart of Avondale Dealerships.

He's served twice as the chairman of the Mercedes-Benz Dealer Board and is a past member of the Lexus Dealer Council and the Porsche Board of Regents. He's also a past board member of the AT&T Performing Arts Center and past board chair of The Episcopal School of Dallas. 

Ken is a current member of World Presidents Organization, Texas Quality Consortium and Baylor Healthcare System Foundation. He earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Virginia.




  

Neil C. Grossman, Chief Executive Officer

Neil has a unique career journey that began nearly five decades ago as a car washer at Henry Butts Oldsmobile in 1974. His subsequent roles in sales and service enabled him to gain an intricate understanding of the automotive industry, setting the stage for his evolution into an influential leader and effective operator.

Neil's innovative approach to automotive retail led to leadership roles at dealerships in the DFW area. Neil's career took a transformative turn in 1988 when he partnered with Ken Schnitzer at the original Park Place Motorcars Mercedes location. In relatively little time, Neil assumed the role of General Manager, and together with Ken, began the growth and development of Park Place Dealerships.

Neil's people focused leadership continued to shine in the early 2000s when he became President of Park Place. He played a pivotal role in expanding the company to over 2,400 employees, 14 buildings, and 19 franchised brands. His journey reached a significant milestone in 2018 when he earned the role of CEO, overseeing significant company transformation, including the transition from Park Place to Avondale Dealerships.

Despite his impressive career, Neil remains grounded, leading with transparency, trust, and approachability. His journey, from washing cars to running an industry leading automotive group, underscores his belief in the importance of all roles within an organization, making him a relatable and humble leader.





   

Hesham Elgaghil, President

Hesham attended Southwestern University, studying kinesiology and sports medicine, while also playing collegiate basketball. Post graduation, a simple visit to Park Place Lexus Grapevine shifted his career direction, leading him to a sales role at Park Place Mercedes-Benz Grapevine. Here, he contributed significantly, particularly by initiating a new sales and fleet division. 
 
By 2003, Hesham transitioned into the role of New Car Manager at Mercedes-Benz Grapevine and later served as the Director of Sales for Park Place Motorcars Dallas, Mercedes-Benz. His time at Mercedes-Benz Dallas further solidified his dedication to teamwork and a client-centric approach, resulting in national recognition as a top three performing Mecedes-Benz business.
 
In 2015, he played a key leadership role in the creation of the 'One Touch Program' at Park Place. Through his leadership, the organization prioritized client feedback to enhance their overall experience through a one-person approach to the entire automotive buying experience.
 
The following years saw Hesham undertaking various roles, from General Manager (GM) of Mercedes-Benz of Arlington to Chief Strategy Officer for Park Place Dealerships, always with an emphasis on client experiences, business growth and overall organizational improvement. His leadership as GM was recognized when the team received the 'Mercedes Best of the Best' award.
 
In 2020, as the sale of many Park Place businesses occurred, the leadership team built Avondale Dealerships, and Hesham was entrusted with the role of President. Today, he focuses on nurturing Avondale's culture, fostering team development, ensuring client satisfaction, innovating to problem solve, and strengthening community bonds. Under his guidance, Avondale continues to maintain an industry leading service experience, while constantly transforming to provide the automotive solutions that clients deserve. He and the team members do so with a spirit of optimism that results in genuine care with a human touch.